A perennial rush forming, stout, dense, prickly clumps. Flower stems 400mm-1m tall, to 5 mm diameter, stiff, smooth. Leaves 1-2 per stem, similar to stem, extremely sharply pointed. Many large flowers on each stem, brown. Seeds long-tailed and contained in dark brown capsules 5 mm long.
Habitats
Coastal saline flats in mud and sand. Uncommon in Auckland but becoming established in several areas i.e., Whatipu, Tawharanui, Kaipara and other northern places. Also further south, eg Foxton.
Impact to Biota and Ecosystems
Displaces native rushes and sedges. Quality of the habitat visually and recreationally is seriously degraded as this plant is conspicuous and extremely prickly.
